VR techniques for the investigation of molecule data

This paper describes a system for investigating molecule data. By means of combined Virtual Environment and Scientific Visualization techniques it allows for immersive exploration of individual molecules as well as for investigation of docking behaviour between two molecules. Special emphasis is put on good interaction (simultaneous operation of two input devices with 6 degrees of freedom each, virtual menus), on fast rendering of large molecules in high quality (level of detail, fast rendering of spheres, utilization of multiple rendering pipelines, sorted triangle strips for transparent surfaces), and on other perceptual issues (e.g. judgement of position and size of molecules by shadows). The techniques which were realized for this system may also be used in other applications like assembly tasks, virtual material testing, etc